This legendary 1969 color telecast of Strauss's original, one-act version of this buffo/seria opera has a stellar cast, led by the phenomenal Beverly Sills in her prime. Looking and sounding just gorgeous, the delightful American singer tosses off Zerbinetta's challenging coloratura with absolute aplomb, while fellow American Claire Watson makes an outstanding Ariadne and the three nymphs harmonize in heavenly fashion.

"What Sills does here may be the most amazing document by an American singer in the 20th century.... [Sills performs] this impossible music with miraculous ease, brilliance, and precision of attack, pitch, and tone."—Albert Innaurato

"The aristocratic, undervalued Claire Watson (a protégée of Klemperer's and Solti's) sings Ariadne with warmth, understanding, and pure tone, easily taking in the role's wide vocal range and opera seria attitudes…. The casting of Najade, Dryade, and Echo is all luxury: Eunice Alberts sings with a rich alto; Benita Valente uses her silvery tone exquisitely; and Carole Bogard's control of dynamics is a treat."—Classics Today